(From left) Dennis O’Rourke, FJHS ’70; Phil Reilly; and Bob Carroll, FJHS ’72 were medal winners in the 50-59 age group at the 2009 Crusader Classic. Photo courtesy of Dennis McCrossen.

The Father Judge High School Alumni Association will host the eighth annual Crusader Classic 5K Run/Walk on Sunday, October 3, 2010 at 9:00 a.m. to benefit the Alumni Scholarship Fund. The annual 5K Run/Walk supports partial scholarships provided by the Alumni Association to deserving students who otherwise may be unable to attend the school. The Alumni Association distributed over $50,000 in financial assistance over the past year and over $500,000 since its inception.

(From left) Pat McMenamin, FJHS ’95 with Brain Conti, FJHS ’92 and son Max at last year's event. Photo courtesy of Dennis McCrossen.

This Crusader Classic began in 2003 with 75 participants; this number grew to 148 in 2009, with a large portion consisting of Father Judge graduates, their families and friends. Over the years, current and former students, faculty members and coaches have participated. The event has evolved into a tradition for fathers and their children, husband and wives, and many other combinations of family and friends who join in the jaunt through Pennypack Park.

The event attracts both the serious runner as well as those who come to socialize and reminisce about the glory days. The serious runners can compete for awards given to top finishers of age categories including under 15, over 60 and in ten-year increments for age groups in between. Additionally, special awards are given to the first place male, first place female and the top Judge student and alumni.  These awards were established in honor of some men and women who dedicated their careers to Father JudgeFor additional information contact Dennis at 215-333-7648 or email crusaderclassic [at] comcast.net.

Submitted by Dennis McCrossen